Templegate Developments Limited, the joint venture partnership of Evans Property Group and Keyland Developments, has started work on site preparing the way for the next phase of its new sustainable community, to accommodate circa 500 new homes, at Skelton Lakes in Leeds Aire Valley.
Appointed contractor Hall Construction Services Limited is now on-site delivering Phase 2 of the scheme, which is funded by a £20M Home Building Fund loan from Homes England. Phase 2 will deliver over 27 net acres of fully serviced development plots by Spring 2024.
The Homes England loan will fund the delivery of infrastructure and ground preparation works for all phases. These crucial works will facilitate the development of the entire scheme, which is set to make a significant contribution to the region’s housing targets, in addition to enabling the creation of more than 500 new construction and operational jobs.
The 170-acre former open cast colliery site, to the east of Junction 45 of the M1, has planning permission for 1,800 new homes, a primary and secondary school, public open space, a local centre, and a convenience store, as well as associated infrastructure.
Following the sale to Avant Homes and Evans Homes who acquired 27 acres to form Phase 1 of Skelton Lakes work will also be underway soon. Both housebuilders plan to start building on site shortly, subject to planning approval being given. This will deliver a combined total of 415 homes.
Peter Garrett, Managing Director of Keyland Developments, said; “It is exciting to be back on-site delivering one of Leeds City Region’s most significant regeneration schemes. Skelton Lakes has received great support from the City Council and with the continued support of Homes England we have commenced the works that will pave the way for much needed new homes.”
John Carter, Director at Evans Homes, said; “We are looking forward to delivering new homes on the first phase at Skelton Lakes and are proud to be involved in this significant housing delivery. ”
Tim Armitage, Senior Portfolio Manager at Homes England added: ‘Following the successful completion of the phase 1 works it is fantastic to see phase 2 now start, which will ultimately deliver more new homes at this strategic site.’